There are several spots in Rio de Janeiro and around it to watch the sunset. You could see a different sunset day after day, several days in row. Depending on the one you want to see, you may need to take a guided tour, drive, or just take a short stroll to get to the watching point.
The most popular sunsets in Rio, and close to where tourists usually stay are:
1 – Sugar Loaf Sunset
This is one of the most spectacular sunsets in Brazil — on the summit of Sugar Loaf Hill at 396 meters (1,300 ft) above sea level. This is the most popular one among tourists, since tourists have to visit Sugar Loaf anyway (and pay its expensive round-trip gondola ticket).
To visit Sugar Loaf you can either take an organized guided tour, or do it yourself by following the step-by-step recommendations and suggestions in My Rio Travel Guide or in Sugar Loaf Hill – The Definitive Guidebook.
2 – Arpoador Rock Sunset
This is by far the most popular sunset among Rio de Janeiro locals who live in the nearby neighborhoods such as Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, Leme, and Arpoador. The access to the top of Arpoador Rock is free, which makes this overlook even more popular not only at sunset, but any time of the day, especially on weekends.
The busiest moment at Arpoador Rock is on Fridays, but mainly on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, when Cariocas (natives of Rio) head to the rather spacious summit of the rock to see the sunset. This rock is at walking distance from Ipanema (mainly) and Copacabana.
When visiting Rio de Janeiro don’t miss this sunset. Get a map of the area in My Rio Travel Guide, the most updated, informative, and helpful travel guidebook to Rio de Janeiro — and also get instant access to neighborhood maps, tips, secrets, and lots of travel information.
Click below to get your copy and see the great sunsets in Rio!
